Depression – Latest news, Breaking stories

GPs report symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression are on the increase in the UK.

85% of UK GPs reported a rise in the number of patients with symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression in the last five years

58% of UK adults who experienced stress, anxiety or depression for over one week did not visit their GP, and 21% waited six months before seeking help

GPs taking part in a study by Royal London reported that one in six people ask for their diagnosis to be concealed on a fit note

Almost half of workers (45%) who have been diagnosed with stress, anxiety or depression admitted that they would feel uncomfortable telling their employer about their condition. A further three in five (59%) said they would not want any evidence of them having experienced stress, anxiety or depression on their work sick record – which ties in with GPs who claim one in six people ask for their diagnosis to be concealed on a fit note.

Over 70,000 children put on pills for depression

Tens of thousands of children are being given antidepressants despite warnings that the pills may harm developing brains for little benefit.

NHS data obtained by The Times reveals for the first time that one in six adults in England used antidepressants last year — an increase of almost half a million since 2015.

The figures include more than 70,000 people under 18 and almost 2,000 children of primary school age. Experts think that such pills rarely work in children, with one saying that doctors were “medicalising adolescence”.

Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams tells of depression

Beyoncé’s former bandmate Michelle Williams has checked herself in to a mental health facility in California to get treatment for depression.

The singer, 37, who was part of one of the world’s most successful girl groups Destiny’s Child alongside Beyoncé, 36, and Kelly Rowland, 37, has decided to go public in an effort to help other sufferers.

“For years I have dedicated myself to increasing awareness of mental health and empowering people to recognise when it’s time to seek help, support and guidance from those that love and care for your wellbeing,” says the star, who hasn’t matched the success of her bandmates since the group split in 2006.

“Today I proudly, happily and healthily stand here as someone who will continue to always lead by example as I tirelessly advocate for the betterment of those in need.”

Sources have told US website TMZ that Michelle, who admitted last year that she has battled the illness since age 13, checked herself into a facility just outside LA and has been receiving treatment there for several days.

Her admission prompted messages of public support from many.

These included messages from Beyoncé’s mum Tina Knowles and sister Solange, as well as celebrity rapper Missy Elliott.

Michelle’s statement came on the same day that singer Katy Perry, 33, revealed she too had suffered from depression and also checked herself into a facility following the poor reception of her latest album.